Datuk Ong Kim Swee’s men were left feeling frustrated after they battled out a goalless draw against Macau at the Hang Jebat Stadium.
Hands down, Malaysia were the favorites on paper but as they say, you never know what to expect in football. Macau managed to nullify Malaysia’s attacks, thanks to their concrete defending but the one player who evidently stood out was their goalkeeper, Ho Man Fai.
Malaysia had at least 9 shots on target. 7 out of the 9 managed to be saved by Man Fai. Despite being at the tender age of 22, being able to parry point-blank chances, notably the one from Malaysian skipper Amri Yahya, just proves the talent he possesses.
The 22-year old shot stopper also maintained incredible focus throughout the game allowing him to make the saves that eventually helped Macau keep a clean sheet.
Besides him, Macau’s 4-men defence deserve a mention as they helped Man Fai in earning the draw. Not to forget our very own Amri Yahya and Hafiz Kamal, who were influential for Malaysia throughout the 90 minutes. Hafiz Kamal, despite coming on after the break, managed to produce 2 amazing free-kicks that were safely parried away by the Man of the Match, Ho Man Fai.
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